Lasagna Bolognese Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of the ultimate comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Lasagna Bolognese Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together layers of tender pasta, rich and savory Bolognese sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, culminating in an explosion of flavors and textures that instantly transport you to an authentic Italian trattoria. It’s the perfect meal to share with loved ones, impressive enough for a special occasion but simple enough to enjoy any day of the week. Trust me, once you try this Lasagna Bolognese Recipe, you’ll have a new family favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the heart of this Lasagna Bolognese Recipe. Every item from the fresh vegetables to the cheeses plays a vital role in creating layers of flavor, balancing richness, and giving the dish its inviting texture and color.

• 12 lasagna noodles: The tender pasta sheets create the perfect structure to hold the layers together beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity depth to the sautéed vegetables for that classic Italian base.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness that softens the sauce’s acidity.
• 1 carrot, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and a faint crunch that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped: Brings an earthy flavor that complements the ground meats perfectly.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a warm, aromatic punch.
• 1 lb ground beef: Offers hearty, meaty richness that’s essential to a classic Bolognese.
• 1/2 lb ground pork: Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, enhancing the sauce’s texture.
• 1/4 cup tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, giving the sauce a rich and vibrant base.
• 1/2 cup dry red wine: Provides depth and a slight tanginess that elevates the entire sauce.
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: Delivers fresh, bright tomato notes with a velvety texture.
• 1 cup whole milk: Softens the sauce with creamy sweetness, making it luscious.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a touch of herbaceous warmth reminiscent of Italian gardens.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle but important spicy bite.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Introduces a gentle kick for those who like a hint of heat.
• 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese: Provides creamy, mild flavor and a delightful contrast to the meat sauce.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Ensures gooey, melty perfection in every bite.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers sharpness and nuttiness for that classic Italian finish.
• 1 egg: Binds the ricotta filling for a smooth, firm texture.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color that brightens the dish.

How to Make Lasagna Bolognese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bolognese Sauce

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion, carrot, and celery for 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the fragrance to deepen. Add the ground beef and pork, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, and cook until nicely browned. This browning is crucial—it locks in flavor and builds the rich base of your sauce. Next, incorporate the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to enhance its depth. Pour in the dry red wine, letting it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly for complexity. Finally, add the crushed tomatoes, whole milk, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, to meld all the flavors into that iconic slow-cooked Bolognese taste.

Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

While your sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain them carefully and set them aside, ensuring they do not stick together. Having perfectly cooked noodles is essential—they provide the tender layers that soak up the luscious sauce but still hold their shape through baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta, egg, and chopped fresh parsley if using. Mixing in the egg is important as it gives structure to the ricotta layer during baking, preventing it from becoming runny. The parsley adds a fresh note that cuts through the dish’s richness.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Now for the fun part! In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of your Bolognese sauce to prevent sticking. Layer on some noodles, followed by a generous spread of the ricotta mixture, a hearty ladle of Bolognese, and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers, building height and flavor, finishing with a top layer of Bolognese sauce and mozzarella. Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over everything. Cover the dish with foil to lock in moisture and pop it in the oven.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes covered with foil, then remove the foil to let the cheese bubble and turn golden, baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This timed finish lets the top develop that irresistible crust while keeping the inside creamy and tender. Once out of the oven, allow it to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before cutting—this settling time ensures clean slices and a perfect melt in every forkful.

How to Serve Lasagna Bolognese Recipe

Garnishes

To enhance the flavors and presentation of your Lasagna Bolognese Recipe, sprinkle a bit more fresh chopped parsley or basil over each slice. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil can add a glossy finish and boost aroma. For an extra touch, serve with freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of Parmesan at the table—it’s those small details that make a meal truly memorable.

Side Dishes

Lasagna doesn’t need much to shine, but pairing it with a crisp, simple side like a green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables balances the richness beautifully. Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf is also ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate—because let’s be honest, no good lasagna slice leaves the plate without a little extra savoring.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve your Lasagna Bolognese Recipe in individual ramekins or mini baking dishes, allowing each guest to have their own perfectly bubbly portion. Alternatively, layering the lasagna in glass bakeware lets guests admire the colorful layers before digging in—always a crowd-pleaser. For a rustic family-style approach, serve it straight from the baking dish accompanied by a big wooden spoon and laughter around the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Lasagna Bolognese Recipe tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors continue to meld and develop overnight, so reheating often feels like eating a dish made by a pro chef.

Freezing

This lasagna freezes beautifully, which is great for busy weeknights or meal prep. Assemble it fully, then cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, you can either bake it from frozen (just add extra baking time), or thaw it overnight in the fridge for a more even bake.

Reheating

For reheating, cover the portion with foil to prevent drying out, and warm in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through. If you’re short on time, the microwave works well too—just cover the plate and heat in bursts to keep every layer moist and melty.

FAQs

Can I make the Bolognese sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making the Bolognese sauce a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen beautifully. Simply store it in the fridge and assemble the lasagna right before baking for maximum convenience and taste.

Is it necessary to use both ground beef and pork?

Using both meats adds richness and complexity, but you can use just one type if preferred. Ground beef alone works fine, though ground pork adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the sauce’s texture.

Can I substitute béchamel for the ricotta layer?

Yes! For a more traditional Italian lasagna, béchamel sauce is a creamy, smooth alternative to the ricotta mixture. It adds velvety texture but requires making a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and milk.

How do I prevent the lasagna from becoming watery?

Make sure to simmer the sauce uncovered to reduce excess liquid, and drain cooked noodles well. Also, letting the lasagna rest after baking helps excess moisture absorb and the layers set firmly.

Can I use no-boil noodles in this recipe?

Yes, no-boil noodles can be used for convenience. Just ensure your sauce is slightly more liquidy to allow the noodles to soften properly during baking.

Final Thoughts

This Lasagna Bolognese Recipe is one of those dishes that brings people together and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. It’s both a labor of love and a rewarding culinary adventure that results in a deeply satisfying meal. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, you simply can’t go wrong with this classic Italian masterpiece. Go ahead and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Lasagna Bolognese Recipe

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3.8 from 79 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This classic Lasagna Bolognese recipe layers tender lasagna noodles with a rich, savory Bolognese sauce made from ground beef and pork, a creamy ricotta mixture, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfectly baked until bubbly and golden, this hearty Italian main course is ideal for family dinners and special gatherings.

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Ingredients

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Bolognese Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/2 cup dry red wine
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Other Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the assembled lasagna.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
4. Brown Meat: Add the ground beef and pork to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink.
5. Add Tomato Paste and Wine: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in the dry red wine and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
6. Simmer Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, whole milk, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop rich Bolognese flavors.
7. Cook Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside to prevent sticking.
8. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Mix until smooth.
9. Assemble Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the Bolognese sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, then spread with a layer of the ricotta mixture. Top with another layer of Bolognese sauce and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers, finishing with Bolognese sauce and mozzarella cheese.
10. Add Parmesan and Cover: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the assembled lasagna. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying during baking.
11. Bake Covered: Bake the covered lasagna for 25 minutes in the preheated oven.
12. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
13. Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna rest for 10 to 15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Notes

• For enhanced flavors, prepare the Bolognese sauce a day ahead to allow the taste to develop.
• Substitute béchamel sauce for the ricotta layer to make a more traditional Italian lasagna variant.
• This lasagna freezes well; assemble ahead of time and bake from frozen, adding additional baking time as necessary.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian